RAYFORD GRIFFIN: Rebirth Of The Cool

Rayford Griffin

Rebirth Of The Cool

© 2002 Rayford Griffin/Galen Griffin Music BMI (724101825521)

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Neo-classic Jazz - An innovative return to solid grooving old school jazz, inventive musical artistry, strong solos and live studio recording.

tracks

1 Rebirth Of The Cool
2 Lids and Squares
3 All That
4 Everytime I See U
5 In Your Eyes
6 Jazzi Ray (Rayford's Song)
7 Folake
8 Kings
9 Coffee

notes

If it's true what they say about nothing being more dangerous than an idea whose time has come, then drummer extraordinaire Rayford Griffin's long-awaited first CD as a leader is destined to have a ruthless impact.

In his journey, Rayford has lent his drumming magic to a diverse resume of world class artists ranging from Michael Jackson, Stanley Clarke, George Duke and Jean-Luc Ponty to Bette Midler, Anita Baker and Patrice Rushen. Now Rayford emerges from the drum riser to equally showcase his writing, arranging, drumming and his singing gifts on his phenomenal CD Debut "Rebirth of The Cool."

Much of the album was conceived and recorded in Rayford's Razoredge studio, allowing him plenty of relaxed time to develop the material along the way. "I didn't want to beat people over the head with an album of drum solos, odd meters and fast playing," Rayford shares. "Though I do flex some of those muscles, I wanted to be as musical as possible with something for everybody and also show how drums could be a part of that without being offensive."

That's quite a statement coming from a drummer whose concert solos have brought fellow players and lay people alike to their feet with awe, appreciation and an adrenaline rush. It was the drum solos of Art Blakey and Max Roach on albums by his late, lamented uncle, trumpeter Clifford Brown, that lured him to the drums. Griffin is a technical master who brings to his towering arsenal of drums and percussion toys an engrained knack for groove and a graceful style that is always complementary to anyone with whom he plays. Rebirth of the Cool completes this portrait of the artist as so much more.

The album is a decidedly personal and contemporary take on Rayford's appreciation of tradition. The heart of the music is rooted in a tangy fusion of raw funk and relentlessly swingin' jazz ("Lids and Squares" and "Kings"), but there are also songs of melodic beauty and radio-friendly panache ("Everytime I See U" and "In Your Eyes"). There are blazin' jazz-rock fusion workouts ("Coffee" and "Folake'") that will have aspiring drummers getting out there notepads. There is also a dynamic straight-ahead number ("Jazzi Ray") that recalls the aural signature of big band great, Neil Hefti.

reviews

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  • A consistent passion for the Groove
    author: Kyle Anastasio WWW.thegiftofgroove.com

    After seeing Rayford play live a couple of times and listening to his CD, it is clear that Rayford's approach to the drum kit is on even par with the legends. The fact that he plays Left-handed on a "right-handed" set up gives him that unique fluency like such greats as Billy Cobham, Lenny White and Carter Beauford. Which is probably the most natural way to approach the kit. Rebirth of The cool is a prime example of a drummer exhibiting his passion for the drums and Rayford is an all around gentleman. When I introduced my son to Rayford, he was kind enough to take the time to speak with him. For that I personally thank you. Wishing you continued success.

  • It`s the best cd in years. Only good music !
    author: Patricia Flores

    I'm fan of Rayford since 20 years. He's played in my country, Chile with Jean Luc Ponty (Storytelling Tour). It's incredible. Your technique, style, groove, etc. This cd contains "truly music", made with passion. Excellent arrange. The musicians are the best. Please, you should be buy this cd.

  • A master of drums
    author: HBH

    This album is for friends of jazz and I understand this term not only as jazz in the classic sense. One can listen to fusion jazz, jazz rock, jazz funk, contemporary jazz and smooth jazz. All tunes are absolutely professional. This album is devine. Read a complete review at http://www.smooth-jazz.de.

  • Great music and drummer. Finally a solo from Rayford.
    author: Paul Antico

    As my father said when I brought him to see Rayford perform, "Best drummer I've heard since Gene Krupa!"

  • A celebration of "in-the-moment" musical enjoyment.
    author: Judy Marshall

    I love this CD. It is an original and intense mix of ultra modern and smoldering retro jazz sound that carries you along from beginning to end. A celebration of "in-the-moment" musical enjoyment. I highly recommend it. >

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